The Holdovers, a film with five Oscar nominations, is currently facing a plagiarism accusation just before the prestigious ceremony. The film, nominated for Best Original Screenplay, is up against tough competition such as Maestro and Anatomy of a Fall.
Writer Simon Stephenson has come forward claiming that The Holdovers script bears striking similarities to his unproduced 2013 screenplay, Frisco. Documents comparing scenes from both screenplays have been presented to the WGA in an effort to seek assistance in resolving the issue.
Stephenson alleges that director Alexander Payne had been in possession of the script for Frisco back in 2013 and again in 2019, before collaborating with David Hemingson on The Holdovers. This controversial accusation may overshadow any wins The Holdovers may achieve at the Oscars.
As the industry eagerly anticipates the outcome of the 96th Oscars ceremony, viewers are encouraged to stay tuned to Euronews Culture for live coverage of the event tonight. Will this plagiarism scandal impact The Holdovers’ chances of taking home the coveted award for Best Original Screenplay? Only time will tell.
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